Shumbalala Game Lodge

For a lodge famous for its stellar game-viewing safaris, Shumbalala sure has one superb kitchen that dishes up delicious cuisine faster than a cheetah can catch its prey. And there's no shortage of places to dine. After an early-morning game drive, tuck into brunch on the veranda with views of the riverbed. Take high tea on the viewing deck overlooking the busy waterhole. End the day with a bona fide bonfire, a delicious meal and fine wines from the cellar.

This is the place to go if you require exclusivity. With just four superior thatched suites and the two-bedroomed Presidential Suite, the lodge sleeps a maximum of 10. Each suite has a fireplace, overhead fans, air conditioning, a "picture window" bathroom, two showers (one outside), a private lounge and viewing deck. The beds are large and blissfully comfortable. The Presidential Suite, with its own pool and wraparound deck, is tough to top. Worth every cent...

If you can drag yourself away from the pool and the passing elephants, enjoy an adventure-packed day. Morning and evening game drives are only interrupted by high tea or sundowners in the bush, so you're able to spot both the early risers and the nocturnal members of the animal kingdom. Want to get a closer look at the smaller creatures and the rich birdlife? Take a guided bush walk for some exciting encounters.